Overseas player Ronnie Hira starred again with both bat and ball as Milford Hall maintained their advantage at the top with a 119-run win over Hammerwich.

A knock of 103 set the leaders on their way as they reached 214 for the loss of six wickets. Then Hira stole the show for a second time with an incredible 7-11, which included nine maidens, from 12.4 overs.

He was ably assisted by 19-year-old off-spinner Paul Startin, making his first-team debut this season, who bowled 2-30 from 15 overs.

Club spokesperson Kevin Hibbert said: “Ronnie has been a fantastic player for us this season. We have a link with his club side back in Auckland [Waitakere] and they continue to produce quality cricketers for us.

“When he hasn’t performed, other people have stepped up to the mark with bat and ball. It has been a real team effort.”

Pelsall are next up for the leaders, who are boosted by the return of Paul Hollinshead and Dave Seville.

Herbert added: “We’re very pleased right now.”

A five-wicket haul from Ian Tudor set Old Wulfs on their way as Springvale were bowled out for 160.

Nutting (35) put on an impressive opening partnership of 70 with Richard Marsh (48) to put his side into a commanding position, which was strengthened by Joe Caddick (47no), before Old Wulfs closed out the win for the loss of just four wickets.

He said: “It was one of our best performances this season. It all came together. We bowled well, fielded well and batted well, whereas in previous weeks we’d been lacking in one department.”

Old Wulfs face a selection headache this weekend against Beacon with Tom, his brother Joe, David Thompson and Ricky Anslow all absent.

Nutting said: “I wouldn’t back us to win that game. Beacon have been doing well recently, but hopefully we can win the toss and pick up some points.”